Tuesday April 28, 2026 @5:00pm, City Council Chambers - The City will discuss its rational for the actions leading up to the decision made earlier this week as well as share its plan moving forward.
The contractor is preparing for the delivery and installation of two large Quercus Virginiana oak trees tomorrow morning, Thursday, May 21.
Due to the size and weight of the trees, approximately 25,000 pounds each, a 110 ton Link Belt crane will be mobilized to the site beginning at 6:00 a.m. Once the crane is fully assembled, the trees will arrive on 18 wheeler trucks for placement within the project area. We currently anticipate the operation will be completed by approximately 11:00 a.m.
Please note the following important information regarding tomorrow’s work:
Temporary No Parking Restrictions
Given the limited space available at the site, some construction vehicles will need to stage adjacent to the project area near the parking meters. Temporary no parking signs have been posted and will be in effect tomorrow from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The restrictions will be removed as soon as work is complete.
Temporary Sidewalk Closures
For pedestrian safety, sidewalks immediately adjacent to the construction area will be temporarily closed during the tree lifting operation. Sidewalk access will be restored as soon as the trees are safely installed.
Safety During Heavy Lift Operations
During the lifting and placement of the trees, safety protocols require maintaining a clear area beneath the suspended load. As a precaution, we strongly recommend that adjacent buildings remain unoccupied during the active lifting operation. We understand that many businesses typically open around 11:00 a.m., which aligns with the anticipated completion time.
If you need access to your building earlier in the morning, please contact Project Manager Sara Bekr by (949) 419-4145 or email sara.b@nexgen-cm.com directly so we can coordinate access to the extent possible while maintaining safe operations.
Community Coordination
We appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation as this exciting milestone progresses. The installation of these trees represents a significant step forward in the completion of the Promenade improvements.
Removal of Tree I on Promenade (Posted May 1, 2026)
I have more bad news, on a day during a week when we did not need more bad news. There are two remaining Eucs in the central promenade area. One is older (Tree I), and one is younger (Tree Q). We had hoped to save Tree “I” from removal, but yesterday received a pathology report on it (attached). It was adjacent to the tree (Tree J) that fell March 21-22, so we had both Tree J and Tree I studied.
The tree looks like this and is along the westerly side of the Promenade:
Here is a diagram showing the trees’ letters. The blue boxes indicate retention of trees (except for now Tree I), and the yellow boxes indicate removals.
As of today, two arborists (see below) have recommended Tree I’s removal, and we are in the process of scheduling that via emergency tree removal provisions. Removal is likely to be tomorrow morning. The sidewalk will likely be blocked near the tree until then to protect public safety. This may involve a short-term closure of 2-3 businesses, so we are trying to address that with them (to either use back entrances or to close briefly).
From Monarch --
After reviewing the latest report from the pathologists at Waypoint, I am now much more concerned about the long-term viability and overall stability of Tree I.
I was not previously aware that a fungal conk had been isolated from its root system, and even though the Waypoint team didn’t pinpoint the exact causal agent, almost all of the common wood decay fungi we work with belong to the Basidiomycota group. The fact that they also recovered Phytophthora is an entirely separate issue (not technically a fungus, it’s in Oomycota and more closely related to algae) as it is one of the primary causes of root rot.
In light of this new information, I would have to concur with Katrina’s recommendation for removal. The hard part about this is estimating how long the tree may remain stable, but I would not recommend leaving it in place for long, given the sudden failure of Tree J and the confirmed presence of the same pathogen in each tree’s root system. The overall poor appearance of Tree I’s canopy indicates that it is likely suffering the consequences of infection by these pathogens, and it is highly unlikely to reverse course and remain viable in the long term.
As we discussed on Tuesday evening, this is both a regrettable and unavoidable process and decision. I am very sorry that this has to be done.
Promenade Tree Update (Posted April 30, 2026)
At its April 28 meeting, the City Council received a presentation from staff explaining the process that led to the removal of the trees on the Promenade on April 20. The video is available here:
It is acknowledged that the community has expressed significant concern regarding the decision earlier this week to remove trees along the Promenade. The City recognizes the impact of this action and the importance of clearly communicating the basis for the decision, as well as the path forward.
The tree removals were undertaken due to identified safety concerns related to risks to life and property. Based on available information at the time, the City determined that immediate action was necessary to mitigate those risks. The decision was made under time constraints and reflects a prioritization of public safety.
To address questions raised by the community, the City has prepared a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section below. This section is intended to provide additional detail regarding the events leading up to the decision, the factors considered, and the actions taken.
In parallel, the City has developed an updated tree replacement plan. This plan reflects current site conditions, long term design objectives, and the goal of restoring and enhancing the character of the Promenade.
The replacement plan includes the installation of new trees in the coming month. Species selection includes eucalyptus and oak, chosen based on site compatibility, resilience, and contribution to the overall landscape design.
The City will continue to refine the planting approach to ensure that the final condition of the Promenade meets community expectations for quality, aesthetics, and usability.
Additional information will be presented at the April 28, 2026 City Council meeting, including:
The basis for the decision to remove the trees
The timing and circumstances that required immediate action
The plan for replacement and long term improvements to the Promenade
The City encourages community members to attend the meeting or review the materials that will be made available following the presentation.
Further updates will be provided as implementation of the replacement plan proceeds.
Promenade Trees (Posted April 21, 2026)
Following the unexpected failure of a mature eucalyptus tree within the Promenade project area, further investigation by two independent arborists found that nine additional trees present safety risks due to compromised root systems caused by past damage, decay, and improper growing conditions. Based on these findings, and in accordance with City policy, the trees were removed immediately to protect public safety and reduce liability. Plans are in place to replace the removed trees with properly planted specimens while retaining seven older viable trees. Below is key information related to the Promenade Trees:
The City hosted an urgent Town Hall meeting on April 20, 2026, to share findings, explain next steps, and answer community questions.
A video recording of the meeting is now available below:
Why were the trees removed?
After a mature eucalyptus tree fell within the project site in March, the City directed a detailed safety review of nearby trees. Two qualified arborists independently evaluated 11 trees in similar conditions and both concluded that 9 of those trees had structural root issues that made them at risk of failure. Based on that expert input, those nine trees were removed to protect public and worker safety.
Why did this happen so quickly / overnight?
Once the City received consistent findings from two arborists that certain trees posed a safety risk, the City needed to act promptly. Trees of this size can cause serious injury or damage if they fall. Acting quickly reduces that risk. There is no good time to remove a tree.
Were the trees healthy? “They looked fine.”
Many of the trees appeared healthy above ground. However, the concern was below ground in the root systems. Inspections found decay, past root damage, and missing structural roots that are critical for stability. Trees can look healthy but still be at risk of falling.
What exactly was wrong with the trees?
The arborists identified several issues affecting different trees, including:
Root damage from past sidewalk and curb work
Decay and weakened root systems
Roots constrained by thick-gauge plastic root barriers and buried concrete slabs from the original planting and previous construction.
In some cases, a lack of large structural roots needed to keep the tree stable. These conditions can significantly increase the risk of failure, especially for large trees.
Did the Promenade project cause this?
The findings indicate that multiple factors contributed over time, including past construction and sidewalk work that impacted root systems. The current project followed required tree protection measures, but when surrounding materials (like old sidewalks) were removed, previously hidden root issues became visible. Construction of the project revealed these conditions, it did not create them.
How many trees were affected?
The project area included 16 trees
11 trees were closely evaluated after the initial tree failure
9 trees were removed based on safety concerns
7 trees remain and will continue to be monitored
Why removes instead of saved or reinforced?
Both arborists evaluated the trees and determined that the structural root issues could not be reliably corrected to ensure safety. In cases where large trees have compromised root systems, removal is often the safest option.
Why not remove fewer trees?
The City relied on the professional judgment of two independent arborists. Both reached the same conclusion about which trees posed a risk. The decision was based on those findings, not a predetermined number.
What will replace the removed trees?
All removed trees will be replaced. When the project is complete:
More than 30 trees will be in the Promenade area
Replacement trees will include eucalyptus and other species suited to the site
Some larger specimens, including Southern Live Oaks, will be added
How will the new trees be different?
New trees will be planted using improved methods to support long-term health, including:
Proper soil conditions (based on site soil testing)
Adequate space for root growth
Modern support systems such as Silva Cells
Appropriate irrigation
These improvements are designed to create a healthier and more stable tree canopy over time.
How long will it take for the trees to grow back?
New trees will not immediately replace the size and canopy of mature trees. However, they are being installed at relatively large sizes and in conditions that support faster, healthier growth. Over time, they will provide shade and canopy for the Promenade.
Why plant eucalyptus again?
Eucalyptus trees are part of the area’s existing landscape and can perform well in local conditions. Species selection is also being guided by soil testing, which showed elevated salinity levels. A mix of appropriate species will be used to support long-term success.
Will the remaining trees be safe?
The 7 remaining trees were evaluated and determined to be suitable candidates for preservation. They will continue to be monitored as the project progresses and following completion of the project.
History and Background
Timeline
June 15, 2020 – Promenade on Forest implemented by the City of Laguna Beach in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to support local businesses by expanding restaurant seating and merchandise display areas outdoors.
January 12, 2021 – City Council extended the temporary Promenade on Forest program through January 31, 2024.
February 27, 2024 – City Council meeting, the City Council appointed Mayor Sue Kempf and Councilmember Mark Orgill as a City Council Ad Hoc Committee (Committee) for the Promenade on Forest project. The scope of work for the Promenade Ad Hoc Committee is to work with the community, residents, staff, and consultants to identify the scope and constraints of a Forest Avenue Promenade project and develop the process to advance the project through public engagement strategies, including public input from among the community's roster of qualified volunteers with vast professional experience in a variety of applicable disciplines.
April 23, 2024 - City Council expressed its desire to proceed with the Promenade on Forest Project to covert the temporary pedestrian plaza occupying the street into a permanent pedestrian plaza (the “Project”).
February 4, 2025 - Joint meeting between the City Council and Planning Commission, the City Council reaffirmed its desire to proceed with the Project, which involves two separate components: (1) closure of the street; and (2) the design and construction of the improvements to create the permanent pedestrian plaza. The City Council also updated the Project description to include the implementation of a Slow Streets Program as allowed under the State of California’s Vehicle Code section 21101(f) to effectuate the closure of the street component of the Project.
February 26, 2025 - Planning Commission conducted a duly-noticed public hearing to review a revised conceptual design plan for the Promenade on Forest. After considering all public testimony and all relevant public comments, and all documents and evidence submitted, including but not limited to the staff report, attachments, and materials submitted by the Applicant, the Planning Commission provided design feedback to the City Council Ad Hoc Committee and City staff.
March 25, 2025 - City Council introduced for first reading an ordinance that adds Chapter 11.70 (Slow Streets Program) to Title 11 (Streets and Sidewalks) of the Laguna Beach Municipal Code (the “Slow Streets Ordinance").
April 2, 2025 - Planning Commission approved Design Review 25-0319 and Coastal Development Permit 25-0318 to convert a temporary pedestrian plaza occupying a portion of Forest Ave (Promenade on Forest) into a permanent pedestrian plaza by removing the existing curb and gutter, adding drainage improvements, adding pavers, adding seats and tables for outdoor dining and gathering for the general public, removing certain landscaping and adding certain landscaping, and adding light improvements. The Planning Commission also determined that the project is statutorily exempt under Senate Bill (SB) 922/Public Resources Code section 21080.25(b)(1) because the project is a pedestrian facility that would improve safety, access or mobility, including new facilities, within the public right-of-way.
April 8, 2025 - City Council conducted the second reading and adoption of the Slow Streets Ordinance.
June 11, 2025 - City Council sustained the Planning Commission’s conditional approval of Design Review 25-0319 and Coastal Development Permit 25-0318, and the Community Development Director’s conditional approval of Coastal Development Permit 25-0587 and found Design Review 25-0319 and Coastal Development Permits 25-0318 and 25-0587 statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(b).
August 15, 2025 - California Coastal Commission found no substantial issue with Coastal Appeal A-5-LGB-25-0018 filed for Coastal Development Permits 25-0318 and 25-0587.
January 13, 2026 - City Council awarded a construction contract to Superb Engineering. The City Council also approved the award of contract to Nexgen Construction Management for management and inspection services.
February 17, 2026 - Construction began.
Approved Design by Planning Commission
The Planning Commission’s approved design is here, and the approved resolution is here.
Promenade on Forest Key Features:
• Removal of existing curb and gutter
• Addition of linear trench drains
• Addition of permeable surfaces and brick pavers
• Landscaped gardens consisting of shrubs, vining plants, and groundcover, to include flowering plants for added color
• Areas for seating and dining
• Designated areas for temporary performances
• Wider storefront walkways
• New tree plantings
• Drainage system
Project Meetings
The City has held public meetings, workshops, and focus groups discussions with City staff, the City Council ad hoc committee, and/or certain City legislative bodies, that have collaborated with property owners, business owners, and residents in regards to the project, including but not limited to the following efforts:
The City conducted public workshops on September 22, 2022, and May 17, 2023.
The City Council held public meetings on January 12, 2021, May 18, 2021, June 7, 2022, January 23, 2024, February 27, 2024, April 23, 2024, February 4, 2025, and April 8, 2025 discussing, over the course of those meetings, a permanent Promenade Project with the closure of Lower Forest to vehicular traffic and various design iterations.
The Planning Commission held public meetings on July 5, 2023, February 4, 2025, February 26, 2025 and April 2, 2025 to review various design iterations.
The City Council Ad Hoc Committee for the Promenade on Forest Project met with property and business owners in the project area for focus groups (Architects/Planners, Community, Restaurant, and Retail Groups). On April 17, 2024, May 7, 2024, September 19, 2024, and January 7, 2025, the Ad Hoc Committee conducted several meetings on each date with the respective the focus groups, who were provided updates on the Project and opportunity to provide feedback.
The City Council Ad Hoc Committee also informally discussed on multiple occasions with property and business owners in the Project area the proposed Project and the street closure.
